United States' disrespect for sovereignty

THE EDITOR, Sir:

Access to information is one of the solid pillars of democracy.People dohave the right to know.Knowledge is power, it is often said. But, it is the use of knowledgewhich has the power to transform; when we actupon our awareness.

The Gleaner'sdecision to publish the leaked US diplomatic cables, via WikiLeaks, has been met with mixed reactions and raises a number of concerns.

The Gleaner is a credible and influential newspaper, and herein lies the first concern. The information published is cloaked in the credibility of this newspaper. Moreover, the US is our very powerful ally, for which many seem to have a hero worship. The information, therefore, is taken as gospel.

However, it is important to note that for any givensituation, there will always be various interpretations and misinterpretations. All humans, US diplomats included, are fallible.

High-ranking officialsor politicians, mentionedin these cables, can face some kind of predicament whether the comments are favourable or not.

Misunderstanding

Text without context is a recipe for misunderstanding. But, the US Embassy is not denying or substantiating any of these revelations.

TheGleaner, before publishing,should therefore seek to interview those who will be mentioned, given theirintegrityand reputations may be adversely affected by these revelations.This would give a sense of balance.

The US is our biggest trading partner, on whom we are heavily dependent for economic aid. We are very indebted and have also accepted economic aid from countries which are not US allies; for example, Venezuela with the PetroCaribe Accord. Can we remain a foe to no one by being a friend to everyone?

Revelations so farcan be interpreted that there had beenattempts by external forcesto influence appointments to sensitive posts in our Government. This should be one ofour biggest concerns, especially from the standpoint of national security! Many Jamaicans see this as interference, and no respect for our sovereignty.

The leaked cables reveal the manner in which key partners view us and the level of respect shown. These are more than clear reminders that the crime monster needs to be slain, and there canbe no political independence without economic prosperity and independence.

Are we sovereign or suffering? Despite all the bragging about sovereignty, given our severe indebtedness and very high murder ratein Jamaica, there seems to be more suffering in it than sovereignty.

I am, etc.,

D.R.FACEY

DR.Facey@gmail.com